Colorado Trail Segment 19 - 21 Detour (La Garita Wilderness Bypass)

This detour, also known as the La Garita Wilderness Bypass, connects Spring Creek Pass to Cathedral Ranch. It primarily follows Cebolla Creek Road.

The route primarily consists of county roads, offering a mix of surfaces. You'll encounter approximately 52.2 km of gravel, 24.5 km of asphalt, 3.02 km of unpaved sections, and a small portion of singletrack. County Road 50, a significant part of the route, is generally well-maintained gravel, but other unpaved sections can be less maintained and potentially rocky or muddy after rain.

Komoot rates this mountain bike ride as difficult, requiring very good fitness. While some sections might be fairly easy, the overall challenge comes from its length (approximately 80 km) and significant elevation changes, with about 1,520 meters of climbing. Be prepared for sustained climbs and long hours in the saddle.

Riders consistently praise the detour for its jaw-dropping, gorgeous views and abundant water sources. You'll experience expansive vistas and natural landscapes, including traversing Spring Creek Pass and Slumgullion Pass. It offers a beautiful change of scenery from more technical Colorado Trail segments.

Yes, the Colorado Trail Segment 19-21 Detour is generally dog-friendly. As much of the route follows county roads and passes through the Gunnison National Forest, dogs are typically permitted. However, always ensure your dog is under control, preferably on a leash, to protect wildlife and respect other users.

No specific permits are required to ride this detour. Since it largely follows county roads and passes through the Gunnison National Forest, there are no entrance fees. However, always practice Leave No Trace principles and be aware of any specific regulations for dispersed camping if you plan an overnight trip.

The best time to ride this detour is typically from late spring through early fall, generally June to September. During these months, snow has usually melted from the higher passes, and weather conditions are more favorable. Always check the local weather forecast before heading out, as conditions can change rapidly in the mountains.

Yes, a significant advantage of this detour is the presence of services at Cathedral Ranch Cabins & Bikepacker Resupply Store. This is an important stop for bikepackers, offering resupply options, showers, and camping, making it a convenient and strategic point on your journey.

Yes, the route intersects with or runs concurrently with several other paths for short sections. These include parts of the Continental Divide National Scenic Trail, the Colorado Trail itself, and roads like Old Mill Road, Mainline Road, and La Garita Stock Driveway Road.

This detour is essential for mountain bikers because it allows them to bypass the La Garita Wilderness, where bicycles are prohibited. It provides a legal and scenic alternative, enabling cyclists to complete a continuous through-ride or bikepacking trip on the Colorado Trail without encountering non-bikeable wilderness sections.

Given the route's length and difficulty, pack essentials for a challenging ride. This includes plenty of water, high-energy snacks, navigation tools (GPS device or Komoot app with offline maps), a repair kit for your bike, appropriate layers for changing weather, and sun protection. Be prepared for sustained climbs and potentially remote sections.